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LaunchJOCO initiative holds graduation, welcome ceremony
from January 2024
by Johnston Now
Submitted by Clayton Chamber of Commerce
CLAYTON — The LaunchJOCO Initiative celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of its 2023 class and the warm welcome of the 2024 group. This annual event, held at the Johnston County Community Center, marked the culmination of a year-long journey for 15 ambitious entrepreneurs who benefited from business mentorship and development opportunities.
The LaunchJOCO program is a collaborative effort involving key partners such as the Benson Chamber of Commerce, Central Johnston Rotary Club, Clayton Chamber of Commerce, Clayton Chamber Foundation, Clayton Rotary Club, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Johnston County Chapter, Small Business Center of JCC and Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. This year's ceremony was particularly notable for the graduation of 15 entrepreneurs who have been diligently paired with seasoned business mentors. These mentors have guided them through the intricate process of business development, offering insights into funding resources and invaluable mentorship.
Their hard work and dedication were acknowledged in a speech by Clayton Chamber President, Dana Wooten.
“As we gather to honor the achievements of our graduates, it's also a moment to ignite the spark of ambition in our new participants,” she said. “Through our program, we provide the essential tools and knowledge that empower our entrepreneurs to defy the odds, to not only survive but to thrive and contribute to the economic vibrancy of Johnston County.”
In a show of support, KS Bank awarded five $1,000 grants to distinguished graduates: Joy Avery of Lady Lioness Handmades, Porsha Green of Vision Focused Optix, Angeline Martin of Deliverance Worldwide LLC, Maryrose Nelson of Song & Story Creative Therapies and Lola Price of With Love, Lola.
Additionally, Bernice Reynolds of Clayton Women in Networking presented a special $1,500 grant to Shannon Sellers of Showing My Roots.
Melissa Overton, LaunchJOCO Project Manager and owner of MedicalTraining.me, concluded the ceremony with a message, quoting Steve Harvey: “The dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately.”
“As we congratulate the class of 2023, we also welcome the Class of 2024 and challenge you to put the work in so that you get your maximum return on investment from this life-changing program,” she said.
As LaunchJOCO continues to foster entrepreneurial spirit in Johnston County, the initiative is now opening its doors for mentor applications for 2024.
For more information about LaunchJOCO, visit www.claytonchamber.com/launchjoco. html.
